Japan Aluminium Association assesses US tariffs' impact on domestic market

The Japan Aluminium Association is looking into the possible impact of recent United States tariffs on Japan’s aluminium market.

On March 12, 2026, the United States, under President Donald Trump, imposed a 25 per cent tariff on aluminium products under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act.

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Earlier, the tariff applied to nine types of aluminium products, such as sheets, bars, tubes, wires, and foil. It has now been expanded to 123 categories, including products that contain aluminium. These include parts used in semiconductor equipment and aircraft products.

Aluminium is widely used in industries such as automobiles, semiconductors, and electronics. It is also important for sectors like aviation, space, and defence.

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In 2024, Japan exported aluminium rolled products and foil to the United States worth JPY 23.5 billion (USD 147 million). In the same year, it imported aluminium products from the United States worth JPY 27.9 billion (USD 174 million). This resulted in a trade deficit of JPY 4.4 billion (USD 27 million). Over the past ten years, Japan has generally imported more aluminium from the United States than it has exported.

The association stated that Japanese aluminium products support manufacturing and employment in the United States. It also expressed concern about the tariff measures.

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During a recent visit by Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry to the United States, both countries agreed to hold administrative-level discussions.

The association stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and work with the Japanese government to seek exemptions from the tariffs.